Community groups across Oxfordshire are being encouraged to apply for new funding aimed at supporting local walking, wheeling and cycling routes on the National Cycle Network.
Leading active travel charity Walk Wheel Cycle Trust has launched the Love Your Network grant, offering resources and equipment to community groups across England who help care for traffic-free trails in their local areas.
The National Cycle Network spans 12,000 miles of signed paths and routes for walking, wheeling and cycling across the UK, connecting communities to green spaces, town centres and essential services.
In Oxfordshire, volunteers play a key role in maintaining these routes, helping to keep them safe, welcoming and accessible.
By looking after sections of the Network, local groups not only improve everyday journeys but also enhance the surrounding environment and strengthen community connections.
Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, the custodians of the Network, works in partnership with volunteer groups, landowners and local authorities to ensure routes remain inclusive spaces for all users.
Katie Aartse-Tuyn, Director of Volunteering at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust said:
“Local community groups and volunteers are at the centre of our people-powered movement, helping nurture the National Cycle Network across neighbourhoods in every corner of the UK.
“We’re delighted to launch Love Your Network across England and to offer more resources to support the amazing work of volunteers throughout the country. The love and care they show for our Network keeps these local lifelines alive and helps even more people walk, wheel and cycle.”
The initiative is funded by Active Travel England and delivered through Walk Wheel Cycle Trust. Applications are now open, with community groups encouraged to apply ahead of the deadline on 14 June 2026.
Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, the new name for Sustrans, is the charity working to make it possible for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle.
The organisation works directly with communities to deliver local improvements and uses evidence from its projects to influence policy and drive wider change.
Further details about eligibility and how to apply can be found on the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust website.
